The carousel continues to spin ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, and Detroit Lions fans are nowhere closer to understanding what the team plans to do on Day 1 of the festivities. Of course, we know which positions could use an injection - tackle and pass rusher stand out in the pack - but, we don't know which position the team is currently valuing more with their 17th overall pick.
That's why intel drops like what we just got from ESPN's Eric Woodyard and Matt Miller matter a ton ahead of April 23. Both experts shared what they think about the Lions' current thinking in regards to their Day 1 and 2 selections, and it might surprise fans to hear that Detroit seems to be a lot more worried about their defensive line than their offensive line early in the draft.
"When free agency opened, the Lions were aggressive in revamping the offensive line by adding Panthers center Cade Mays, ex-Dolphins lineman Larry Borom and veteran guard Ben Bartch. So, it wouldn't be surprising for Detroit to try to strengthen its defensive line early in the draft, particularly with a young, promising player to pair with Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson. That is a top priority after losing Al-Quadin Muhammad to the Buccaneers following his breakout 2025 season."
Miller concurred with Woodyard's assessment of what the Lions are prioritizing, adding:
"The release of Taylor Decker prompted many to assume Detroit would go offensive tackle in Round 1, but like Eric, I've heard the Lions are equally high on filling their edge rusher need. With only two picks in the top 117, the Lions should be expected to go tackle and edge rusher with those selections."
So, maybe trash those mock drafts that are almost entirely mocking the Lions to take one of Kadyn Proctor, Spencer Fano, or Monroe Freeling at 17th overall. It sure does seem like the Lions might finally be looking to focus on their defensive line after just letting Aidan Hutchinson run that ship solo for the last few years.
Lions primed to (finally) address pass rush room in 2026 NFL Draft
There are a few enticing options for the Lions at 17th overall at pass rusher. Akheem Mesidor, Keldric Faulk, and Cashius Howell are all names likely to be available to Detroit at that spot, but they can also potentially wait until the 2nd round in order to snag an edge that's just as ready to start in Week 1.
Dani Dennis-Sutton, Gabe Jacas, and Malachi Lawrence all come to mind as potential options at 50th overall.
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This does feel like a Catch-22 for the Lions, though. They didn't do much to address their pass rush in free agency, signing D.J. Wonnum after letting Al-Quadin Muhammad walk for very little. They obviously need to add to the group, but it doesn't feel like they can afford to make that swing in the first round.
Their need for a starting caliber tackle feels a whole lot greater, and they can only land one on Day 1 in this class. Despite what is being reported as a greater concern for their D-line, Detroit might not have a choice when it comes to how they handle their 1st round pick.